Illinois Exports up 5 Percent

The U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration (ITA) recently announced that Illinois merchandise exports increased 5 percent in 2012 compared to 2011, growing from $64.8 billion to $68.0 billion. Illinois’ strong performance in 2012 helped the United States reach an all-time record for exports of U.S. goods and services, of $2.2 trillion in 2012, supporting nearly 10 million American jobs.

Among the Illinois companies enjoying healthy exports in 2012 was Airfloat. The Decatur-based manufacturer shipped its air-bearing material-handling equipment to such far-flung locations as China, Malaysia, Canada and Australia, where it will be used in the manufacture of large electrical generators, mining trucks, passenger aircraft and other industrial equipment.

Airfloat hopes to build on its export success in 2013. Last month, the company announced the addition of Herramientas AG (or “Tools” AG) as the exclusive distributor of Airfloat equipment for the Mexican market. Based in the city of Chihuahua, Herramientas AG is a major distributor of electric, pneumatic, hydraulic and manual tools for industry. AG is also well known to Mexican mining companies for the specialized wire cables, steel chains and attachments it sells.